Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a decadent dessert that combines the rich warmth of bourbon, the deep intensity of chocolate, and the bright sweetness of strawberries. These Chocolate Bourbon Cupcakes are not just a treat; they're a culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary sensory experience. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a luxurious homemade delicacy, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 cup strawberries, pureed
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, bourbon, and pureed strawberries until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a stand mixer until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then add vanilla extract and increase speed to medium-high.
- Beat the frosting for 3-4 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Once cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the strawberry-vanilla frosting on top of each cupcake.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a light dusting of cocoa powder for additional presentation.
Tips
- Bourbon Selection Matters: Choose a quality bourbon with smooth, caramel-like notes to enhance the chocolate's depth.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and other ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation and a more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients to maintain a tender, light cupcake texture.
- Accurate Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure precise baking temperature for even cooking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and maintain beautiful decoration.
- Frosting Technique: For a professional look, use a piping bag with a star tip when applying the strawberry frosting.
- Storage Tip: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 95mg
